Despite its proximity to Split, Brac is less touristed than the glittering islands of Hvar and Korcula further south. No celebrities or tycoons glide their yachts into Brac harbors nor do politicians stroll village steets. For that reason, it provides an excellent window into authentic island life, particularly in the interior.

Brac also has an extensive and fascinating history as it has been inhabited since Neolithic times. More.

Don't miss the olive oil in Brac! The olives are of a rare variety called buhavica and there's over a half-million trees. Olive cultivation dates back to the Venetian years. Back in 1655 the Venetian senate insisted that the island be carpeted with olive trees and imposed fines upon anyone with the temerity to damage the trees.

Geography

The highest peak on Brac Island is Vidova Gora at 778m which is the highest peak on the Adriatic islands. The interior of Brac is mostly small valleys and fields while on higher ground, north of Vidova Gora you'll find an endemic species of pine. Along the coast the woods are mainly Aleppo pine.

Brac is most famous for its beautiful white building stone which has been exploited since ancient Rome. Diocletian's Palace in Split was built from Brac stone and it is still used in the construction of buildings as far afield as Europe and north America.

What to See & Do

One nice way to discover the island is to take one of the walking tours offered by a local couple, Vic and Angela, at Footsteps in Croatia.

Getting Around Brac Island

Without your own wheels it is only slightly inconvenient to get around Brac as there are regular bus services to all parts of the island. Note that all services begin or end in Supetar however. If your plan is to go from Milna to Bol for example, you'll have to go to Supetar first.

The bus company that handles the routes is Autotrans and you can book online.

Compared to other islands in southern Dalmatia,
it's relatively inexpensive to stay
in Brac.Because of its beach, Bol is by far the most popular destination and the priciest in summer. More.

Getting to Brac

Brac is one of the easiest
islands to get to from Split which is why many Croatians from Zagreb
or Split buy second residences in Brac. You can even do it as a day
trip from Split.

By Plane From May to October Croatia Airlines runs twice weekly flights from Zagreb to Brac airport. Currently the airport is only able to handle planes of up to 100 passengers but an expansion is underway that will greatly increase capacity.